Chile has expanded its army’s fleet with the delivery of new Kia Light Tactical Vehicles (KLTVs) manufactured in South Korea, including a new variant designed for communications operations.
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According to information from Defence Blog, which cited Chilean Army officials, the III Mountain Division began receiving the new KLTV280 4×4 vehicles on June 22 of this year.
This variant, based on the multipurpose KLTV280 platform, has been integrated into the division’s communications units and will be included in Chile’s joint command and control system.
While the KLTV280 is also known internally in South Korea as the K154 observation vehicle, the Chilean version was equipped with military-grade communications systems instead of advanced observation equipment.
Measuring 4.9 meters long, 2.2 meters wide, and 2.3 meters high, with a 4×4 chassis and high ground clearance, the KLTV280 is ideal for off-road operations and narrow mountain routes.
The vehicle is powered by a 225-horsepower diesel engine coupled with an 8-speed automatic transmission, capable of reaching a top speed of 130 km/h.
Chilean military forces plan to use the vehicle to rapidly deploy communication networks in high-altitude terrain, including the Andes Mountains.
“The introduction of the KLTV is not just a technical upgrade — it will enhance the communications capabilities of the III Mountain Division,” said a Chilean Army officer.
“The KLTV offers mobility, resilience, and flexibility. It is becoming essential equipment for soldiers operating in mountainous terrain.”
Photo: Reproduction / Defence Blog. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
